Site Navigation

Site Mobile Navigation

Wrestler Deserved To Win Award

What does a guy have to do to get respect? Cael Sanderson, the Iowa State wrestler, finished his career undefeated throughout his four years of N.C.A.A. eligibility. He is the only wrestler to be a four-time national champion and to be the outstanding wrestler four times, finishing with a 159-0 record.

I do not wish to diminish all that Michelle Kwan has accomplished, but those who determine the Sullivan Award winner need to start voting with their heads and not their hearts. I now understand the true meaning of the expression ''sentimental favorite.''

Sanderson is not only the greatest athlete to compete in N.C.A.A. history, he is also an honor student who has handled the pressure of his undefeated streak with grace and dignity. For Kwan and pitcher Mark Prior to have even been considered for the Sullivan Award is a slap in the face to true amateur athletes.

Both Kwan and Prior are paid athletes. This is just another example of how the sport of wrestling has been disrespected.